Koger signs for track at SCSU

Colleton County High School Class of 2018 graduate, Jaden DaionTre Koger, recently signed a National Letter of Intent to participate in track and field at South Carolina State University in Orangeburg. SCSU is a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) that competes on the Division I level as a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Koger looks to contribute as a hurdler for the Bulldogs.
As a member of Colleton County’s track and field team for the span of his high school career, Koger garnered the attention of college coaches following his spring performance in both hurdles and long jump. In addition, he was a four-year varsity letterman for the Cougar football program.
In the spring, Koger was named Region 8-AAAA champion in the 110-meter hurdles and qualified to advance to the Lower State qualifier in both hurdles and long jump. In the SCHSL State Championships, Koger garnered a seventh-place finish in the 110-meter hurdles with a 15.81 posted time. He earned All-Region selection and was named Most Outstanding Performer following the spring season.
Koger made the decision to attend SCSU in mid-June after fielding offers from several in-state colleges. “They have a really strong sprint and hurdle core, and they have a veteran hurdler who’s really good and can help me perfect my craft,” said Koger. “I see myself contributing right away, not only to the hurdle core but also on the relay teams.
“I would like to thank Coach Singleton, Coach George Smith and Coach Hamilton for helping me reach this point in my career,” said Koger. “I also want to thank my parents and family for their support and everyone who has helped me reach this goal. I would not have been able to get to this point without them.”
In Thursday’s signing ceremony, Athletic Director Leon Hammond and Coach Courtney Singleton congratulated Koger and wished him well on his journey.
Koger finished with a 3.2 GPA and was ranked No. 135 in the Class of 2018. He is the son of Shandel and Jermaine Smalls of Walterboro and Kenneth Koger.